Round off your summer with a Sicily villa holiday
Jet off this September or October for a late summer sun holiday in Sicily and catch the last rays of sunshine before autumn sets in. Just a couple of hours’ flight from the UK, temperatures on Italy’s southernmost island can still easily hit the mid 20’s, with sea temperatures reaching a comfortable 22°C. During the day time, flit between powder soft sandy beaches, historic towns and ancient sites, punctuating sightseeing with refreshing gelati and long lazy lunches in the local piazza.
October is the month for bird migrations, making it the ideal time to head for one of Sicily’s magnificent nature reserves or mountain ranges. In the Madonie and Nebrodi Parks, you’ll find trees ablaze with amber foliage and restaurant menus in local villages featuring dishes packed with mushrooms and chestnuts.
Of course, October is also a great time to bag a bargain. Flights are cheaper and you can take your pick from a selection of Sicily villas on promotion all around the island.
Off the beaten track on Sicily’s north coast
Things to do: Explore Graeco-Roman ruins and Tindari’s iconic Sanctuary, home to the cedar wood-carved Black Madonna. Then take a boat trip to the dramatic volcanic Aeolian Islands or head into the Nebrodi mountains for spectacular hiking, local gastronomic specialities and visits to hideaway villages such as San Marco d’Alunzio.
Where to stay: La Nave is a stylish 2-bedroom villa with elegantly furnished contemporary interiors and a private pool with views across the Sicilian countryside to the ocean and the magnificent Sanctuary of Tindari.
What’s special: The months of September and October in the Nebrodi mountains are synonymous with autumn flavours and dishes featuring chestnuts, mushrooms and prickly pears.
Short break in Syracuse, east Sicily
Things to do: Step back in time in the heart of Syracuse, on the island of Ortigia. Explore the city’s narrow lanes and alleyways, its colourful market and its spellbinding Piazza del Duomo. Leave time for a visit to the amazing Archaeological Park and for a chilled afternoon or two on one of Ortigia’s beaches or waterfront sundecks.
Where to stay: Stella in Ortigia is a romantic one-bedroom duplex that ticks every box for couples looking for city exploring with a dash of relaxation. Start your day with a coffee on the vast panoramic terrace and end it with an alfresco dinner as the sun sets over the city rooftops.
What’s special: Apart from the dazzling views across the city from the rooftop terrace, you’re in prime position for exploring Syracuse’s historic centre on the island of Ortigia.
Family holiday near Noto, east Sicily
Things to do: Noto is one of Sicily’s most spectacular towns, crammed with magnificent baroque palaces and churches. On the coast, the string of beaches stretching from Lido di Noto down to the Vendicari Nature Reserve are blessed with fine golden sands and crystal clear water.
Where to stay: Casa del Carrubo is a fabulous 2-bedroom villa that’s ideal for a family half-term break, within walking distance of the beach and the local pizzeria.
What’s special: The villa offers outdoor living at its best. Enjoy use of a private landscaped garden with a pool, jacuzzi and outdoor kitchen with barbecue and woodfired oven.
Beach holiday in south east Sicily
Things to do: Stay close to the stretch of lovely sandy beaches of Santa Maria del Focallo and Baia Porto Ulisse along Sicily’s south east coast. Away from the beach, dip into baroque art and architecture in the fabulous Val di Noto, including the towns of Ispica, Scicli and Ragusa.
Where to stay: Villa Alti is a charming 2-bedroom villa just moments from the beach. You’ll have your own pool, wellness area and an envy-inducing roof terrace with a hot tub.
What’s special: The hot tub with a view is a highlight at any time of the year but when temperatures dip, there’s the added attraction of a patio heater as a backdrop to your al fresco dinners.
Traditional Sicilian villa in the Val di Noto
Things to do: The baroque towns of Ragusa, Modica and Scicli are the big crowd-pullers in Sicily’s south east but visitor numbers drop significantly in September and October. So too on the numerous sandy beaches, many of which are recipients of the Blue Flag seal of approval.
Where to stay: The conversion and refurbishment of Rocca di Pietra was a true labour of love for its owners. Traditional tiled flooring, lofty vaulted ceilings and rustic stone walls provide the backdrop to elegant interiors while outside, tiered terraces overlook the infinity pool and rural landscape between Ragusa and the coast.
What’s special: The villa has a near perfect location, set between a sandy coastline and the memorable towns of Ragusa and Modica. Book a week in September and save up to 20% for groups of to 12.
Hiking and birdwatching in the Vendicari Nature Reserve
Things to do: With four regional parks and just under 80 nature reserves, Sicily offers plenty of activities for nature lovers. The Vendicari Reserve in south east Sicily is laced with itineraries for keen walkers but is also a big attraction for bird watchers. It is at its most spectacular in the autumn months when its lagoons and sandy coastline attracts migrating birds, including flamingos.
Where to stay: Oasivera (sleeps 11) is set on the border of the Nature Reserve, surrounded by extensive lawns and terraces. The villa has a private pool and is situated just 20km from Noto and close to some of the best beaches in Sicily.
What’s special: Climb to the villa’s roof terrace for 360° views over the Vendicari Reserve and the sea. Visit in September and October and save 20% off the villa price.
